What are Common Physical Exam Findings Suggestive of Cancer?
Several physical exam findings can raise suspicion for cancer. Some of the most common include:
Lumps or Masses: Unexplained lumps or masses can be a sign of cancer, especially if they are hard, irregular, and immobile. Skin Changes: Changes such as new moles, sores that do not heal, or changes in existing moles could indicate skin cancer. Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant, unintended weight loss can be a red flag for cancers such as pancreatic, lung, or stomach cancer. Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes, particularly if they are painless and persist for more than a few weeks, can suggest lymphoma or metastasis.